The Best Hiking Trails In Michigan

There are more than 12,000mi (19,312km) of trails to explore in Michigan, and the four seasons only enhance the state’s natural beauty as you venture along coastlines, forests and canyons. Whether it be in the golden hues of autumn, on the white paths of winter or under the blue skies of spring and summer, Michigan is hard to match for the outdoor pleasure and adventure of following the trail.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Lake of the Clouds Escarpment Trail

This is considered by some to be the best trail not only in Michigan, but also perhaps in the entire Midwest. The overhanging views of the park’s wild interior will leave you in awe. Tourists drive to reach this point, but the hike itself is what makes it a view well-earned. Taking it all in from a ledge on the Porcupine Mountains can be intimidating, but that is your goal on this 8mi (13km) out-and-back trek. There are no points to get water, so do remember to bring your own.

The Jordan River Pathway is a fairly difficult 18.8mi (30.45km) loop that takes around two days to complete, making it a popular trail for weekend hikers around Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. There are enough climbs to make it a serious test as you gaze into the valley while climbing up and down. There is plenty of wildlife along the Jordan River too. Beavers building dams and herons wading are commonplace, and in the spring there are a lot of mosquitos, so bring repellent or wait until October when the whole valley turns golden-yellow and red.

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

If you like your trails mostly paved, head to Glen Arbor, the town nearest to the start of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. It’s a perfect trail for wheelchair users or for those who like to cycle or run on pavement instead of hike in the woods. A scenic marathon is run here annually, with the trees offering shade along the path. Bike rental is found in Glen Arbor where you can ride to the Dune Climb. Come winter, bring your snowshoes and crunch your way along it.

Manistee River Trail

When you hike this 11mi (17.7km) trek, you can work your way up to some incredible views of the river twisting and turning below you. However much ground you cover, it is more effortless than other trails in this region. If you choose to do the full 31.1km (19.3mi) loop, you will likely want to camp for at least a night. There are campsites available that come equipped with the basics. In Seaton Creek you’ll find campsites next to a waterfall, which is the highlight of this hike by far.

Sturgeon Falls

This trail near Baraga is only an estimated two miles (3.2km) round-trip, but it is an extremely challenging effort. The descent as you wind down into Sturgeon Gorge is steep, but it leads to very powerful waterfalls. It is always worth remembering that however treacherously steep it is to descend, it is certainly an equal effort to clamber out of the canyon. If you do wish to spend the night before your return, there are some campsites nearby. This is a hike for those who like to tough it out.

Vasa Trail

This all-year-round trail in the Pere Marquette State Forest, close to Traverse City, appeals to hikers and mountain bikers alike, but it is also Michigan’s best ski trail. Come winter, it plays host to those who like to slip on cross-country skis and take on the snow-covered terrain. It is a 26mi (42km) loop that brings you close to all kinds of wildlife, including the prospect of black bears. In hunting season, it is wise to wear bright orange for your protection.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.